“Canada deplores in the strongest terms the ongoing violence and destruction in Libya and is appalled by the reported incidents of human rights abuses. We urge all parties to accept an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities.

“It is unacceptable that it is the people of Libya who pay the ultimate price in this conflict. They have sacrificed a lot for their freedom and recently elected the House of Representatives as their sole and legitimate representative.

“Canada will continue to work closely with its allies and partners to support Libya’s elected institutions and hold to account those responsible for violations of international law.

“Canada stands with the Libyan people in their struggle to defeat terrorism and violence, restore the rule of law, and build a free, prosperous and democratic society.”